Carbon Configurations

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In this activity, learners use geometry to predict the shape of carbon. Learners twist and attach chenille stem pieces that represent bonds between different carbon atoms. Information about tetrahedral, trigonal planar, and diamond geometry types is included in this resource. This activity can also be used to introduce learners to allotropes (pure carbon forms) and fullerenes such as buckyballs and carbon nanotubes.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • chenille stems or thin wire or plastic twist ties
  • scissors

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Nanotechnology
  • Mathematics
    • Geometry
      • Plane Geometry
      • Solid Geometry
    • Representation
  • Physical Sciences
    • Chemistry
      • Chemical Bonding
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Atomic Structure
      • Elements and Periodic Table
      • Elementary Particles and Nuclear Physics
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Yu, Julie

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Exploratorium, 2010

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation, 0610238
  • National Science Foundation, 0925383